THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP Recipe

If you are searching for a comforting, hearty, and irresistibly delicious dish to warm your soul, look no further than THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP. This cozy classic blends creamy cannellini beans, tender vegetables, and fragrant herbs into a luscious bowl of goodness that tastes like a warm hug on a chilly day. Lightly seasoned and perfectly balanced, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying—an easy-to-make favorite you’ll want to keep close at hand all year round.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP lies in its simplicity, with every ingredient playing its part to create a symphony of flavors and textures. These straightforward pantry staples come together effortlessly to build a soup that’s both comforting and vibrant.

• Cannellini beans or white beans (2 cans, 28oz/800g): The creamy heart of the soup, providing protein and silky texture.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Adds natural sweetness and depth of flavor as it softens.
• Celery stalk (1, diced): Brings a subtle, fresh crunch and mild earthiness.
• Carrot (1 large, diced): Offers a gentle sweetness and vibrant color.
• Garlic cloves (1–2, diced or pressed): Delivers a fragrant punch that lifts the entire soup.
• Frozen spinach (1 cup/7oz/200g, optional): Adds a nutritious boost and lovely green hue.
• Potatoes (2 medium, peeled and chunked): Give comforting weight and help thicken the soup naturally.
• Olive oil (1 Tbsp plus more for serving): Provides richness and helps develop flavors.
• Tomato paste (1 Tbsp): Introduces a subtle tang and deep umami undertones.
• White wine (1/3 cup/80 ml): Adds a delicate acidity to brighten the soup’s flavor profile.
• Rosemary (1 sprig or 1 Tbsp chopped fresh or 1/2 tsp dried): Infuses an aromatic piney note that complements the beans perfectly.
• Vegetable broth or hot water (2 cups/500 ml): Creates the flavorful base that ties everything together.
• Paprika (1/2 tsp, optional): Offers a subtle smoky warmth if you choose to include it.
• Salt (1/2 tsp plus more to taste): Enhances and balances all the natural flavors.
• Black pepper (1/8 tsp plus more to taste): Adds a gentle kick of spice for complexity.

How to Make THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by warming your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until it’s shimmering with promise. Toss in the diced onion, carrot, and celery, stirring often. You’ll notice the onion soften and become translucent after about 5 minutes—a key moment when the flavors start to meld and the soup’s foundation is laid.

Step 2: Add Garlic, Beans, and More

Now stir in the garlic along with the drained beans, tomato paste, potatoes, rosemary, and paprika if you’re using it. Cook this mixture for about one minute while stirring frequently to let the garlic’s aroma bloom and the tomato paste deepen the flavor without burning.

Step 3: Deglaze with White Wine

Pour in the white wine and give everything a good stir, letting it simmer gently so the alcohol cooks off and the liquid reduces slightly. This step brings a subtle brightness that lifts the entire soup just before the broth goes in.

Step 4: Add Spinach, Broth, and Simmer

Next, toss in the frozen spinach along with your vegetable broth and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it gently simmer for 15 minutes, letting the potatoes soften and the soup thicken into an irresistibly creamy texture.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve

Once the potatoes are tender and the soup feels luscious, remove the pot from the heat and fish out the rosemary sprig if you used one whole. Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed—sometimes a little extra seasoning makes all the difference. Ladle the soup into bowls, then drizzle generously with olive oil and add freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Serve with crusty whole grain bread, and if you’re not keeping it vegan, freshly grated Parmesan cheese makes it downright decadent.

How to Serve THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP to a restaurant-worthy experience. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds silkiness, while a sprinkle of cracked black pepper gives a bit of spice. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a small handful of grated Parmesan inject bursts of freshness and flavor that keep each spoonful interesting.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crunchy whole grain or sourdough bread for dipping, which helps soak up every last creamy bite. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or roasted seasonal vegetables for extra texture and nutrients on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to make this inviting dish even more special? Serve it in rustic bowls with a toasted baguette slice topped with melted cheese on the side. You might also drizzle a swirled dollop of pesto or a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt on top for added color and a tangy contrast. The possibilities to personalize THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP are endless, making it perfect for casual lunches or cozy dinner gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP keeps incredibly well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its fresh flavors and creamy texture. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep it smooth.

Freezing

If you want to make this soup your go-to freezer meal, it freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. Frozen THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP will stay at its best for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup slowly over low to medium heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to encourage a creamy consistency. If the soup thickens too much after storage or freezing, just add a splash of water or broth to loosen it to your desired texture.

FAQs

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Absolutely! Using dried beans can add an extra layer of flavor and texture, but remember to soak them overnight and cook them fully before adding to the soup. Canned beans offer convenient speed without sacrificing taste, making them perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Is this soup vegan?

The soup itself is naturally vegan if you skip the Parmesan cheese garnish. Using vegetable broth keeps it plant-based, making THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP a delicious option for vegan and vegetarian diets alike.

Can I substitute the white wine?

Yes! If you prefer not to use alcohol, simply replace the white wine with an equal amount of vegetable broth or water. The soup will still have wonderful flavor, just slightly less acidity to brighten it up.

How can I make the soup creamier without cream?

The potatoes and beans naturally create a creamy texture when cooked down. For an extra silky result, you can use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup, leaving some whole beans and veggies for pleasing texture contrast.

What herbs work best besides rosemary?

While rosemary is fantastic for its aromatic piney notes, thyme, sage, or even a bay leaf can be lovely substitutes. Just be sure to remove any whole herbs before serving.

Final Thoughts

Creating a bowl of THE BEST WHITE BEAN SOUP is like crafting a little oasis of comfort and flavor in your kitchen. Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with heartwarming taste, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and again. I genuinely encourage you to try it—you’ll find it quickly becomes a cherished favorite that cheers you up on any day.

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